FAQs

Counselling involves talking confidentially on a one-to-one basis to an impartial, trained listener. It can help you identify and explore options for change, or develop better ways of coping.

What kind of problems can counselling help with?

The kind of problems that people seek counselling for include anxiety, depression, bereavement, relationship difficulties, trauma, family issues, confidence and self-esteem problems, work-place issues, stress. Whatever it is that is troubling you, it is worth spending some time exploring what is happening.

Does counselling work for everyone?

Most people feel a benefit, but it can’t help everyone. When you attend your first appointment you and your counsellor will think together about whether counselling is likely to be helpful, if you decide it isn’t the counsellor will suggest other sources of help.

Do I need a referral from my G.P.?

Anyone can apply directly for counselling. We also welcome referrals from GPs, other health professionals and employers.

Do you have a waiting list?

If you use our Fasat Track Services you will be offered an appointment within 2 weeks of applying for counselling.

Our other services might have a waiting list, the length of time varies. If you can be flexible about when you attend for counselling the wait will be shorter.

How much will counselling cost?

The cost of counselling varies depending on which service you choose, and if you are eligible for one of our grant funded services. Our Fast Track service costs £40 per session in the day time and £45 in the evening. Our Low Fee service is means tested and operates on a scale of fees depending on your income and personal circumstances.

How long do the sessions last?

Counselling sessions last 50 minutes.

How often will I need to come?

Counselling usually happens weekly.

How long will I need counselling for?

The number of sessions needed varies but will be discussed when you start counselling. A set number of sessions can be agreed or it can be open-ended with regular reviews. If you are being seen under a specific contract the number of sessions will be limited.

What happens if I miss an appointment?

We ask that you give at least 24 hours’ notice if you need to cancel, otherwise we will charge the full fee for the missed appointment.

Will I get advice?

The point of counselling is to help you make your own decisions. The counsellor helps you think about what’s right for you and might suggest areas to explore. You will be encouraged to find solutions that you are comfortable with.

What if I don’t know what to say?

You can say as little or as much as you like. The counsellor will help you explore your problems and won’t mind if you want to sit quietly or don’t know what to say.

Will the counsellor judge me?

Counsellors believe that when things go wrong in someone’s life there is usually a good reason and that having problems and feeling distressed is part of being human.

Does seeing a counsellor mean that I am mentally ill?

Counsellors view people in distress as going through a difficult time, not as being ill. However counsellors are trained to recognise the symptoms of more severe distress and might suggest more specialised help if they feel that it’s appropriate.

Will what I say be confidential?

Anything you say in counselling will be kept confidential. The only exceptions would be if the counsellor was required by law to disclose offences, or if they felt there was a risk that you might harm yourself or others. Confide Counselling Service complies with the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) and is registered with the Information Commissioners Office.

If you would like to make an appointment then please visit the Contact Us page where you can choose how to get in touch.

Do you have access for disabled people?

Yes we do have disabled access and we have a loop system. If you have any other requirements for specific facilities please let us know.

Do your counsellors work professionally and ethically?

Counsellors working at Confide are carefully selected, externally assessed and supervised to ensure that we offer clients the highest standards of care. While most of our counsellors are fully qualified, we have a small number of trainee counsellors on clinical placements. All trainees are on recognised training courses and are in the final stage of their diploma level training before qualifying. We carefully assess clients to ensure that they are matched to the most appropriate counsellor for their needs.

All of our counsellors abide by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy Ethical Framework. Confide is the only counselling organisation in Shropshire that has service accreditation by the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy.